How do I get my motorcycle licence in South Australia?

Yes, South Australia has a graduated licensing system for motorcycles, which means that there are different licence classes based on the engine capacity and power output of the motorcycle. However, like in Queensland and Western Australia, South Australian car-licence holders can legally operate a moped (a machine with a maximum capacity of 50cc and top speed capability of 50km/h) on a public road, as long as it’s registered, insured and roadworthy.

Before applying for a motorcycle learner’s permit, you need to attend a training course. The Basic Rider Safe training course consists of two half-day sessions, during which you will learn basic motorcycle operating and manoeuvring skills in a safe, closed-course environment.

A practical skills assessment will be conducted at the end of the second day and, if you fail the course, you are allowed two additional attempts at no extra charge.

Once you pass, you then need to sit an online Ls course and theory test to gain your permit. Once you’ve obtained your learner’s permit, you’ll need to enroll in the Advanced Rider Safe course, which is a half-day training session that includes a practical assessment. You will learn advanced bike-control skills with an emphasis placed on road-riding skills and traction theory. Like the Basic course, if you fail, you’re allowed two additional goes at no extra charge.

No. You’ll learn all of the basics at the pre-learners skills course. Once you have successfully completed the Basic Rider Safe course, you’ll receive an endorsed ‘Approval to obtain a learner’s permit’ certificate, which is only valid for 12 months. If you don’t apply for your learner’s permit within the 12-month period, you’ll need to do the Basic Rider Safe course again.

Yes. But you must hold a motorcycle learner’s permit for a minimum period of 12 months, regardless of age and regardless of whether you hold a full licence for another vehicle. You must carry your learner’s permit at all times while riding and display L plates.

After you’ve held your learner’s permit for 12 months, you’re at least 19 years old and you’ve passed the Advanced Rider Safe course to obtain your certificate of competency, you then need to present that certificate in order to apply for an R-Date (or provisional) licence. You will be required to hold an R-Date licence classification for two years before you’re granted an R or unrestricted motorcycle licence.

The good news is there’s no test, fee or hoops to jump through in order to make the step between an R-Date and an unrestricted licence. Your licence class will automatically update to a class R upon your next licence renewal.

Alternatively, you can apply to have the class upgraded from a class R-Date to R once the eligibility date has lapsed, but you will need to pay a fee for a replacement licence. But you can ride unrestricted motorcycles immediately after the eligibility date has passed.

That depends. If you’ve never held any type of licence prior to applying for your motorcycle learner’s permit, you need to be 18. If you’ve held at least a provisional licence for another class of vehicle, you can apply for your learner’s permit at 17. You’re even allowed to apply for a learner’s permit as early as 16, but only if you live in certain postcodes and only for the following three reasons: to attend tertiary education, vocational education or training or within the course of tertiary education, vocational education or training; for work purposes; or to participate in sporting activities.

The best way to equip yourself with the knowledge required to pass your online learner course and theory test is to study The Rider’s Safety Handbook, which is a 52-page document covering four chapters: Preparing to ride, Safe riding, Motorcycle Roadworthiness; and Road Rules for Motorcycle Riders.

The Rider’s Safety Handbook is available as a free download. Alternatively, you can pick up a free hard copy of the book from any Service SA customer service centre.

What do I need to take to my motorcycle learner course or licence assessment?

You cannot use your own motorcycle in the Basic Rider Safe course unless there are exceptional circumstances, meaning a motorcycle will be provided. However, you must bring a compliant motorcycle helmet, photographic and signature identification, as well as the receipt to prove you’ve paid for the course.

In terms of appropriate clothing, as a minimum you’ll need a long-sleeved top, full-length pants and enclosed sturdy shoes. Failure to bring those items, or if you turn up dressed inappropriately, means you’ll be turned away and ask to rebook the course.

You can use your own bike in the Advanced course only, as long as it is registered, roadworthy, not modified and LAMS approved.

The two-day Rider Safe Basic course will cost you $417. Once successful, you’ll pay a once-only fee of $39 to enrol for and sit the online myLs course and theory test – this can be completed remotely or at a Service SA office. The Rider Safe Advanced course is another $371, while the learner’s permit, which will last two years, will cost you $70 to be issued.

Yes. Once the eligibility date on your R-Date class licence has lapsed, you can ride a motorcycle with any power-to-weight ratio. Your licence class will automatically update to a class R upon your next licence renewal. It’s important to note that while the two licences are independent they are bound by the same demerit points. If you lose your car licence, you’ll also lose your motorcycle licence and vice-versa.

Yes. If you commit a traffic offence you may gain demerit points. You don’t lose demerit points, you acquire them. All drivers start with zero points. If you accrue 12 or more demerit points within a three-year period, you will be liable for disqualification. Demerit points expire three years after the date of the offence.

Not in South Australia. Under South Australian legislation, automatic scooters larger than 50cc are considered to be motor vehicles. Operating a motor vehicle requires a motorcycle licence, registration and compulsory third-party insurance.